Epidemiological profile and post - surgical evaluation of 8 glomus tumor cases

Introduction: Glomus tumors are rare benign lesions that are most often found on the tips of the fingers; they account for 1.0-4.5% of neoplasias on the hand. Subungual glomus tumors occur more frequently in women in their 30s and 50s. Objective: This study evaluated glomus tumor patients' epidemiological profiles, their satisfaction with the treatment and the rate of recurrence due to incomplete removal. Method: The records of patients that were treated for glomus tumors at a dermatology clinic between 1992 and 2011 were evaluated regarding gender, age, profession, affected area of the body, satisfaction with the treatment and possible recurrence. Results: The patients (n = 8, average 63 years) were older than those usually described in the literature. The most frequently described profession was that of housewife. All patients were satisfied with the aesthetic results of the treatment. There was a total improvement of the pain in threepatients, while patients with a partial improvement in pain experienced a recurrence. The recurrence rate due to incomplete removal was 50%. Conclusion: The surgery’s effectiveness can be measured by the improvement of the pain; persistence of pain can indicate recurrence.